Teatro Pinas : "Brilyante: Ang Kabogerang Baklaan Musical" Shines Bright in UPLB – A Bold Celebration of Queer Identity and Faith

The University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) proudly presents Brilyante: Ang Kabogerang Baklaan Musical, an original comedy musical that boldly explores the intersection of religion and queer culture. Directed, produced, and musically arranged by Aldrin Bula, with a book by Sam Albert Medina and Angelica Joy Camacho, this groundbreaking production is set to illuminate the stage at the historic D.L. Umali Hall.

Brilyante is a vibrant and thought-provoking musical that delves into themes of self-expression, identity, queer empowerment, and Catholic Christian devotion. Through a colorful and compelling narrative set in contemporary urban life, the story follows Harley, a young baklang kanal navigating the societal and religious challenges that come with their identity. When a beloved local beauty pageant is abruptly canceled due to religious backlash, Harley and their community are forced to confront difficult questions: How do queer individuals break free from internalized homophobia? Is there a space for a fully embraced, unapologetically queer Catholic Christian devotion?

The stellar cast features talented stage actors Jessie Huyo-a (Harley), Meg Guiang (Happy), Rem Tanael (Gemma), and Ickzy Bael (Cheska). With electrifying performances and an infectious energy that is the hallmark of Filipino queerness, Brilyante is set to be a dazzling and unforgettable experience for audiences.

A Production Like No Other

Under the artistic guidance of Asst. Prof. Aileen C. Dela Cruz, the creative and production team behind Brilyante includes:

• Set Design: Roy Padrid

• Stage Management: Zeril Manaois

• Dramaturgy: John Patrick O. Bernabe, Bernie Planco

• Movement & Choreography: Gabriel Nafura, Red Cortez, Shania Pajarillo, Jessie Huyo-a, Ickzy Bael

• Costume & Makeup Design: Enzo Nadonga

• Graphic Design: Jefferson Macaraig

• Lighting Design: Ju Petalver-Rivera

• Sound Design: Diane Inocencio

• Audio Engineering: Ton Wagan, Elijah Torio

• Technical Direction: Marielle Apurado

The live band is composed of Aldrin Bula and Isaiah Cordilla on keyboard, Carl Kristoffer Hugo on guitar, Marie Fraulein Rojas on bass, Giulz Cantar on drums, and El Win Paglingayen and Matt Alarcon on violins.

More Than Just a Musical – A Call for Equality

Beyond entertainment, Brilyante stands as both a celebration and a protest for the Filipino queer and women's community, advocating for a more inclusive society and supporting the passage of gender-responsive legislation such as the SOGIESC Equality Bill. The creative team invites everyone to be part of this milestone in UPLB’s cultural history.

Show Details and Ticket Information

Brilyante: Ang Kabogerang Baklaan Musical will be staged at D.L. Umali Hall, UPLB. For ticket purchases and inquiries, please contact Sales Manager Dy Jimenez via email at brilyantemusical@gmail.com or text 0967 436 3555. Tickets can also be purchased via www.tinyurl.com/Brilyante2025Tix.